IAB reader Rohan Gaikwad has
spotted a Tata 45X (Tata Aquilla) prototype on test in Pune. The black door
handles and steel wheels with no caps are hints that it is in the most basic
equipment line. The Tata 45X is the second model to incorporate the brand’s IMPACT
2.0 design theme. It has a smaller footprint compared to the concept that
debuted at Auto Expo 2018, with the length not crossing the 4,000 mm mark to
avoid higher taxation. The butch-looking hatchback will replace the Bolt in
Tata Motors’ line-up, and realistically compete with the likes of the Hyundai
i20, Maruti Baleno and Honda Jazz.
The Tata 45X is the homegrown automaker's first car
to ride on the Advanced Modular Platform, which will spawn several more sub-4
metre cars and even a Maruti Ciaz rivaling sedan in the future. Not just that,
it will debut a brand-new 1.2-litre naturally aspirated three-cylinder petrol
engine with an optional mild-hybrid system as well. There’s also speak of a
dual-clutch automatic transmission. Even with BSVI emission norms said to bump
costs of small diesel engines to a very high level, reports suggest that a
1.5-litre diesel engine option is planned.
Noteworthy features of the Tata 45X will include
sleek headlamps and tail lamps, 16-inch alloy wheels, pillar-mounted rear door
handles, dash-top floating touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay
and Android Auto support, engine start-stop button and automatic climate
control. The new hatchback is expected to offer unprecedented levels of safety.
The Tata 45X is slated to go on sale in the second
quarter of FY2020 (July-September 2019).
